April 23, 2013 - On behalf of Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, the Honourable Tim Uppal, Minister of State (Democratic Reform), today announced that a site has been selected for Canada’s National Holocaust Monument.
“Canada’s National Holocaust Monument, to be located at the corner of Wellington and Booth streets in our nation’s capital, will be a testament to the importance of ensuring that the memory of the Holocaust is never lost,” said Minister of State Uppal. “The monument will encourage people to reflect upon the events of the Holocaust, remember the victims, and pay tribute to the survivors. It will also encourage people to reflect on the responsibilities each of us has to protect human rights and dignity.”
Minister of State Uppal made the announcement at the Canadian War Museum during a National Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony, hosted by the Canadian Society for Yad Vashem with the assistance of the Zachor Coalition.
The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, also present at the National Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony, remarked: “The Holocaust stands alone in the annals of human history for its systematic cruelty and for the brutal murder of six million innocent Jewish men, women and children. It is essential that we never forget the lessons of the past and continue to educate future generations about the unique horror of the Holocaust. This important monument is one way that we can do so.”
“Canada is committed to Holocaust remembrance, education and research, and to leading global efforts to fight anti-Semitism,” Minister Kenney continued. “We are proud to chair the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance in 2013-2014, under the leadership of Mario Silva.”
“The National Holocaust Monument Development Council has undertaken the important task of ensuring that this monument be built,” said Rabbi Dan Friedman, Chair of the Council, “and we are so pleased and grateful that the Government of Canada has provided such a significant site in the heart of Ottawa. There is a clear understanding that this monument is a testament to every Canadian who believes in standing up for tolerance and human rights. I hope that Canadians across the country will step forward and show their support by donating to this important project.”
For more information about the National Holocaust Monument, including a map of the location and photos of the monument site, please visit the National Holocaust Monument web page.
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
Follow us on Twitter: @DFAIT_MAECI
